Aquatic Invasive Species Programs

The Tahoe RCD is a key player in the Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Coordination Committee (LTAISCC), organized to collaborate on prevention, control and early detection programs. The LTAISCC was formed to better share resources and information, standardize methods for treatment and data collection, perform coordinated education and outreach activities, obtain grants, and organize effective control efforts.

Lake Tahoe’s original ecosystem was very simple, and consisted of only one predominant predator. Over time, some non-native species have been intentionally introduced to increase sport fishing or enhance ecosystem resources. Invasive species, non-natives that are harmful to the ecosystem, have also been introduced through unknown vectors.

Prevention

The Lake Tahoe Watercraft Inspection Program is our number one defense against the introduction of new invasive species entering our waterways. Through boat inspections, decontaminations, and continuous education to our users, we have effectively prevented any new species from entering Lake Tahoe since the program’s inception. Tahoe RCD continues to coordinate and manage the inspection program with the technical assistance and support from the Tahoe Regional Planning Agency.

Control

The Lake Tahoe Aquatic Invasive Species Control Program is working to control aquatic invasive species that have already been introduced to Lake Tahoe. Species under current management are Eurasian Watermilfoil (Myrophyllum spicatum), Curlyleaf pondweed (Potamogeton crispus), Asian clams (Corbicula fluminea) and a variety of warm water fish including large mouth bass, black crappie and bluegill. At the helm of our accomplishments has been a near eradication of over six acres of invasive aquatic weeds in Emerald Bay. Without the help and support of our partner agencies, local business and general public participation, none of this control work would be possible.

For more details about this program, videos and specific project information, click here